A very widespread species, found across the tropics of the globe - found on every continent except Europe and Antarctica. It is highly variable between the subspecies with different races having different plumage patterns and coloration - even on the legs. In Malaysia, this species was easily the most common heron seen on my trip and was seen in both fresh and saltwater habitats - and indeed occasionally just in trees not particularly near bodies of water. It is known to feed on lizards and insects as well.